14 Unique Things to Do in Queens, NY: A Local’s Guide

Queens, New York, is the most diverse borough in New York City, home to over 150 nationalities and more than 160 languages spoken. Known for its rich cultural heritage, it features a special blend of global cuisine, thriving neighborhoods, and iconic landmarks like Flushing Meadows Corona Park and Citi Field. Whether you’re looking to buy a house in Queens, NY, rent an apartment, or rent a home in Queens, you don’t want to miss out on these unique local experiences. 

With mouthwatering food spots on every corner, green spaces galore, and plenty of opportunities to learn something new, it can be hard to figure out where to start. In this Redfin article, hear from Queens locals on unique things to do while in Queens, NY.

1. Explore Queens’ food and drink scene

One way to begin getting acquainted with this borough is to indulge in some of the best restaurants in Queens. From steakhouses to corner cafes, Redfin’s local experts will help you find memorable meals across the borough.

Sanger Hall

“Sanger Hall is more than a bar; we’re a music venue, community space, and home for creatives. We pride ourselves on being a place where everyone’s welcome, from families to artists to music lovers. We host live music, art shows, and unique events that celebrate diversity and creativity in Queens. On top of that, we have amazing neighborhood specials because we believe great food and drinks should be accessible to everyone. And of course, we’re known for our bomb cocktails that keep folks coming back!” – Alex Milachay, general manager of Sanger Hall. 

Belo

“A must-visit in the neighborhood is Belo, right down the street. Jonathan serves up incredible Brazilian dishes with family-style portions, fantastic specials, and killer cocktails. Like us, they’re all about community, great vibes, and bringing people together.” – Alex Milachay, general manager of Sanger Hall. 

Salvatoria Kitchen & Bar

“Salvatoria Kitchen & Bar is a cozy Salvadoran restaurant in Astoria serving some of the best pupusas and plantains in Queens. The warm atmosphere, friendly staff, and flavorful dishes make it a go-to spot for a comforting meal with a Latin American flair.” – Lisa Devine, owner of 2nd Chance Candles, a local candle store.

The Door Restaurant

“The Door Restaurant is an elegant Caribbean restaurant with an excellent menu. In business for over 20 years, there’s a bar area and a beautiful dining space with great service.” – the team at Black Spectrum Theatre, a local community-based professional theatre.

Figlia

“My fiancé and I are partial to quite a few restaurants here in our part of town, Astoria/Ditmars. First is Figlia where the owner, Ricardo, and his team make all of the pasta in-house. They also have amazing wood-fired pizza. Ricardo knows us by name, and probably most of his customers, and goes out of his way to introduce himself and make people feel at home.” – Paul Spataro of Astoria Headshots.

Jack Jones Gastropub

“Another restaurant we enjoy is Jack Jones Gastropub, which is also a warm place for both Irish and American fare. The owner, whose name I cannot remember, dreamt of having a pub like the one his dad went to in Ireland, where people would gather, eat, talk, and take in some music or a football game. 

If you go in the evening or at brunch the hostess (and I believe co-owner) Carol will greet you at the door, show you to your table and take a moment to ask you how you’ve been. They also have a general store that sells candy bars and snacks from Ireland and Europe! It’s such a great place and we highly recommend it!” – Paul Spataro of Astoria Headshots.

Rolo’s

“Rolo’s in Ridgewood is the new ‘must-go-to’ spot with ‘killer hamburgers’ that run out as soon as the first seating enters, so be prepared to be one of the first. The Chef/Co-Owner, Howard Kalachnikoff, formerly of Gramercy Tavern, continues preparing wood-fired dishes that amaze and delight.” – Salvatore Rizzo, owner & CEO of De Gustibus Cooking School by Miele.

SriPraPhai Thai

“SriPraPhai Thai is an old school standard in Williston Park, preparing the most authentic Thai food this side of the world since the early ‘90s. Authentic, delicious and one of the best.” – Salvatore Rizzo, owner & CEO of De Gustibus Cooking School by Miele.

M. Wells Steakhouse

“As a wedding photographer in NYC, I get to discover incredible places while capturing love stories. One unforgettable venue was M. Wells Steakhouse in Queens, where I shot a wedding and had one of the best meals of my life. It’s a perfect blend of industrial charm and fine dining. I took my husband for a meal after I stumbled upon this gem.” – Priyanca Rao Photography, a local photography service in Queens for weddings, corporate headshots, and more.

Elias Corner for Fish

“Elias Corner for Fish is the best go-to Greek restaurant around, with a casual setting that feels like home. The price is great and the food is the best around.” – Williamsburg Cinemas, a movie theater in Brooklyn.

2. Give a visit to the New York Hall of Science

Take the opportunity to learn something new during your time in Queens. “As a lifelong science enthusiast, the New York Hall of Science is one of my favorite places,” says Adnaan Wasey, Executive Director of Rooftop Films, a local nonprofit supporting emerging filmmakers in outdoor locations. 

Adnaan continues, “If you love New York City, I recommend their CityWorks exhibit that shows the elaborate invisible infrastructure that makes everything in the city go. And it’s also a great spot to watch a movie! The Queens Drive-In is a fun throwback theater we’ve created with them, but with new films — including The Wild Robot on May 30th. It all makes me feel like a kid again.”

3. Explore the Louis Armstrong House Museum

Queens and NYC, by extension, were key players in cultivating some of the most influential jazz of the 20th century. There’s no better way to connect with this rich history than visiting a museum celebrating one of jazz’s most influential contributors. “The Louis Armstrong House Museum in Corona is pure joy for me, as a jazz fan,” says Adnaan Wasey, Executive Director of Rooftop Films, a local nonprofit supporting emerging filmmakers in outdoor locations. 

“There’s a tour of the house where Satchmo lived for decades that makes you feel connected to music history, but it’s also a remarkable glimpse into everyday life in Queens in that era. The garden is also a great place to catch a performance honoring Armstrong’s legacy—or a film! We’ve been showcasing new films there for years, and we’re excited to be screening We Want the Funk! on June 11th, in this space where you can feel the community spirit that Armstrong cherished.”

4. Catch a game at Citi Field

A unique thing to do in Queens is checking out a ball game at Citi Field. “Yankee Stadium gets all the notoriety, but Citi Field is one of the best venues to catch a ball game in the entire US,” says Tim O’Reilly of Bespoke Cleaners, a local cleaning company in Queens, NY. “There are amazing food options, including Shake Shack, and you can feel the energy of the city with every pitch. There’s no better place to spend a summer night.”

5. Say hello to the animals at the Queens Zoo

Christopher Figueroa of Chris Fig Productions, a video production service in Queens, recommends a trip to the Queens Zoo to round out any trip.

“As a father of two small children, ages 1 and 3, my favorite weekend activity to do with them in Queens is to visit the Queens Zoo. The absolute coolest part is the Aviary, which is basically one massive bird cage that you can walk around and watch birds fly.  I can’t think of any other place in Queens that has this type of exhibit.

Once we’re done with the birds, we walk over to the petting zoo and feed the animals.  My kids love when the goats eat out of their hands.  Are my kids terrified?  Absolutely!  But they love the excitement of it all.

After visiting the zoo, we take a short drive over to Empanada Cafe, which has arguably the best Empanadas in Queens.  Pick any empanadas from their extensive list, and you’ll fall in love with each bite. It all starts with the filling, which tastes like your grandmother cooked it.  Every Queens local knows and loves Empanada Cafe.”

6. Shop for local gifts at 2nd Chance Candles

For those looking to explore some local artisans in Queens, consider a stop at 2nd Chance Candles. This shop offers hands-on candle-making workshops where guests create their own custom-scented soy candles. Paint pouring workshops or slime-making workshops are also available. “All our workshops are available seven days a week and are great for adults and kids! Our space has a unique, chill vibe that makes everyone feel welcome the moment they walk in,” says Lisa Devine, owner of 2nd Chance Candles.

7. Take a one-of-a-kind cooking class with The League of Kitchens

Queens and New York in general are famous for being culinary havens, but The League of Kitchens has taken it up a notch through a unique cooking class offering. Not only will you learn special dishes to impress your friends, but you’ll be learning these recipes in the kitchens of local cooks in New York. 

“We’re really excited to highlight our next class: Shandra’s Indonesian Summer Immersion Workshop in Astoria,” says Katie Kenny of The League of Kitchens. “Shandra’s home and backyard garden are a vibrant reflection of Indonesian culture, and her class offers an immersive, one-of-a-kind experience you won’t find anywhere else.”

8. Be on the lookout for movie stars

Although you may be able to catch celebrities strolling down the street in Manhattan, Queens is where the real magic happens. “There are a lot of known actors who have apartments in Long Island City because it is close to the studios here,” says Paul Spataro of Astoria Headshots. “And there are quite a few studios where many favorite TV shows and movies have been shot: Silvercup Studios, Broadway Stages, Silvercup East, Kaufmann Studios, and Robert De Nero’s new Wildflower Studios!”

Paul continues, “Being that there are so many film studios in the area, on any given day you can see set trailers, crew, equipment, and of course, actors meandering the streets of Astoria and Long Island City. While Manhattan is beautiful and is usually considered more of the ‘movie scene,’ the studios are here in Queens.”

9. Make a keepsake at the Monster DIY Studio

If you’d rather make a keepsake than buy one, visit Monster DIY Studio for a unique thing to do in Queens. “Our family loves Monster DIY Studio, where you can decorate mugs and phone cases with buttons and emojis. It’s creative, fun, and a sweet spot for making memories,” says Priyanca of Priyanca Rao Photography.

10. Go on a scavenger hunt through the city

One way to get acquainted with the city quickly is through a scavenger hunt. “A scavenger hunt is a great way to explore a new area,” says Ben Hoffman, owner of cityHUNT, a scavenger hunt company in NYC. “Queen’s is no different, it’s filled with iconic landmarks and lesser-known hidden gems. If you strategically plan to end your hunt at The Alcove you won’t be disappointed. It offers up great cocktails and excellent burgers.”

11. See a show at the Black Spectrum Theatre

New York City is famous for being a hub for creatives, so check out a show while you’re exploring the town. The Black Spectrum Theatre, located in Queens, is no stranger to professional productions. “We are a 55-year-old community-based professional theatre that produces award-winning theatre and top-shelf jazz concerts,” says the team at Black Spectrum Theatre. 

12. Breathe awhile in Flushing Meadows Corona Park

Possibly the most beautiful place in Queens is the Flushing Meadows Corona Park. There’s so much to do here for visitors, and you’ll get the best tips from Rob MacKay of It’s in Queens, a local blog for residents and visitors to keep up to date on all things happening in Queens.

“Manhattan has Museum Mile along Central Park, but Queens has Flushing Meadows Corona Park and its countless cultural venues. First of all, FMCP is the fourth biggest public space in all of New York City. With 898 acres, it is 55 acres larger than the aforementioned Central Park and its unique urban/suburban and salt/fresh water location allows for a wonderful mix of flora, fauna, waterways, paths, athletic facilities, statues, and cultural organizations. And just like Hunter’s Point South Park in my other post, it has the best people-watching.

Meadow Lake, which is the Big Apple’s largest body of fresh water, has rental facilities for rowboats and paddleboats. In the same spot, the American Small Craft Association keeps more than a dozen sloop-rigged sailboats, which are used for teaching and racing. It’s also the site of the annual Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival, an international event during which more than 150 teams compete in about 80 rowing races over a long weekend in August. 

Landlubbers can enjoy walking and bicycle paths, some of which connect to the Brooklyn-Queens Greenway, or they can play competitive soccer, volleyball, and cricket games. The Aquatic Center boasts an Olympic-size indoor pool and an ice rink.

I compare FMCP to the Museum Mile because it’s home to Queens Museum, Queens Theater, New York Hall of Science, Queens Zoo, the USTA Billie Jean King Tennis Center, and Citi Field. All these venues have ties to the 1939 and 1964 World’s Fairs. Some are remnants. Some are renovated and relocated exhibits. Some grew up around pavilions. But they all combine history with modern function.”

13. Take in the beauty of Hunter’s Point South Park

Despite being known as the “concrete jungle,” New York City has some breathtaking green spaces to explore. Queens is no exception. For Rob MacKay of It’s in Queens, exploring Hunter’s Point South Park is one of the most unique things to do in Queens. 

“Hunter’s Point South Park is great all year round, but it’s one of the most special places in the world during the warm-weather months.

Located along the East River in Long Island City, this 10-acre open-air public space combines inspiring views of Midtown Manhattan with huge green spaces, sports facilities, clean bathrooms, piers, a kayak launch, and some of the best people-watching in New York City. And then there’s the massive neon Pepsi-Cola sign that dates to 1939 and has landmark status.

Since it’s located near a section of Long Island City that’s exploding with luxury high rises, the park hosts great community activities such as group yoga, free outdoor movie screenings, summer camp, and silent discos. 

Hunter’s Park is easily accessible from Brooklyn and Manhattan via NYC Ferry, which operates a stop there. It’s a lovely, five-minute ride from the stop at 31st Street in Manhattan. Landlubbers can take the 7 train to Vernon Boulevard, which is the first Queens stop after leaving Grand Central Station.

Frank Ottomanelli’s By The Water is the big concession stand. Frank is a member of the famous Ottomanelli family that runs butcher shops all over New York and New Jersey. He serves his award-winning hamburgers along with chicken, hot dogs, chili, and other items. He also operates an outdoor bar with a dancing area when the weather permits.

If you’re still hungry, various food trucks park nearby and sell everything from tacos to arepas to ice cream.”

14. Explore the connection between wine and opera

This experience is truly a unique thing to do in Queens. If you like wine and opera, you’ll love Queens Opera Theatre’s Vino e’ Voce. “Vino e’ Voce is an immersion into the natural connection between wine and opera,” says Brian Gill, executive producer of Queens Opera Theatre.

“Join us as Sandra Zotti guides you through a curated wine journey, complemented by the stunning vocal talents of Sara Duchovnay and Matthew Stephens on the piano. Mark your calendars for June 12th and indulge in a night of sophisticated delight.”

In conclusion: go forth and explore unique things to do in Queens!

From world-class cuisine and rich cultural institutions to serene parks and vibrant community events, Queens, NY, offers an unmatched mix of local flavor and global influence. This rings true for visitors, too. “Even when you’re just visiting, you can feel the rhythm of a neighborhood, and Queens has a beat all its own,” says Chanda Strickland, CEO at Best Property Management in Chattanooga. “From hidden food gems to family-friendly parks, it’s the kind of place that surprises you – in the best way.”

Whether you’re a visitor or a longtime resident, there’s always something new and meaningful to discover in this diverse and dynamic borough.

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